Barbara "Tracy" L. Klein

Barbara “Tracy” L. Klein, loving wife, mother, sister, and grandmother passed away surrounded by her loving family on Christmas Eve, 2022. Tracy is survived by her husband Tom, daughters, Sherry and Bonnie Klein, stepdaughters, Cathleen (Nicholas) Stevens, and Danielle (Gordon) Smith; grandchildren Jack Stevens, Mckenna Smith, Aidan Smith and Cailee Cameron. Siblings Ray (Gloria) Allen, John Allen, Ava Allen, Crystal Allen, nieces, and nephews, and special friends, Cheri (the late Jim), Jack (Mycah), Kate, James (Jennifer), and Meg Smith. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Michael, Sandra, and Linda Graves.

Tracy was born in Little Rock, Arkansas to John and Helen Allen, the middle child of eight children. Tracy moved to Chicago in her twenties, married, and had 2 daughters, Sherry and Bonnie. Later Tracy met Tom Cruse working at the Conrad Hilton Hotel in Chicago in 1980. Tracy continued to work at Eli’s Steakhouse downtown Chicago for many years. They moved to Candlewick Lake upon retirement in 2015. Tom and Tracy enjoyed a life together filled with love, laughter, and time spent with their four daughters, four grandchildren, and their beloved dog, Noel, until the time of her unexpected death. Tracy enjoyed tending her 8 gardens, decorating for the holidays with 7 Christmas trees, and loved sports, especially her Sunday afternoon quarterbacks. She loved spending her time traveling with family, creating memories that they will cherish forever. Tracy was never without Tom by her side and Noel bought them both great joy. They made a great team. Tracy will be deeply missed by Tom, Noel, and her loving family. She will forever be remembered for her kindness and compassion to all.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 16, 2023, from 5:00 – 6:30 pm, followed by Liturgy at 6:30 - 7:00 pm at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford IL.